Below is an article written by Lilit Grigoryan  , Consultant, Middle Management at STRAMMER

Lilit is has over 4 years of experience as an Executive Search Consultant in the Life Sciences industry. Additionally, she has a strong track record in middle management placement in sales and marketing discipline. Today, she helps companies in developing their talent acquisition strategies and therefore has essential tips to give us regarding being successful in the work field. She is also a very good writer and uses this quality to regularly share those tips with us. Here is her latest article about 5 recommendations to make your social media profile stand out. 

More than 65% of the open jobs in Germany usually are not advertised according to the Institute of Employment Research (IAB). Relying only on the classic way of searching for a job through checking the job postings is not the most effective method.

1. Activate your existing network

When you start your job search, first thing you should do is to switch on your network. Networking is one of the most effective ways for finding a job. According to LinkedIn 85% of jobs are filled through networking. Make a list of any relevant person (business contacts, friends, family) you know and who could help you to open doors to the job you are looking for. Get in touch with them and openly communicate your matter.

2. Attend industry events

Make sure to attend industry related events. Prepare yourself for the event. This will not only help you to create your network but also will give you the opportunity to meet employees from your target employer, who later can act as a referee for your application. Check which companies will attend and check the participant list if possible. During the event make sure to be active, exchange and leave good impression. Make sure after the event to follow-up with the contacts you made.

3. Get in touch with recruitment companies

Many companies use recruitment agencies to fill in some positions. Many jobs are never advertised, especially the senior roles. In 2016, more than 60,000 positions were filled in through recruitment companies in Germany. Proactively contact recruiters and build your network there. Chose recruiting agencies who especially have your industry expertise, look at the experience and reputation in the market to get the professional support. If you look for a position in the life sciences industry, I recommend to contact STRAMMER – one of professional and experienced consulting companies in this field.

4. Use social networks

LinkedIn and Xing are great tools for creating your network. Make sure to connect with relevant people from your industry. Follow the companies where you are interested to send your application. It is very often that companies post in LinkedIn and Xing their job openings. In this way you will not miss any potential opportunity. Let the recruiters know that you are looking for a new job by activating the option in LinkedIn (You can find this option under Jobs -> Career Interests -> Let the Recruiters know you are open). Moreover, for many positions, companies use LinkedIn or Xing’s  ‘‘apply function’’, which means you can apply with your professional profile with a simple click. (Check also my article on How to make your professional profile in LinkedIn and Xing)

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This article is the last part of  Lilit‘s article series of successful job search, hope you enjoyed reading them:

Simple Tips to Make a Successful CV for 2018

Simple Recommendations to Create a professional Social Media Profile

Practical Tips for an effective Job Search (Current article)